It's understood Greater Manchester Police would be the first force in England to use Segways for operational policing.

No final decision has yet been taken but two Segways from a company in Leeds have been tested at the North Manchester headquarters of the force.

Chief Supt Nick Adderley, tweeted a picture of himself riding one of the Segways and said: "To increase visibility and accessibility to officers in the city of Manchester, I want to introduce Segways. Good idea?

"We are looking at the feasibility of how successful they would be. We might rent first and give them a try.

"I think it is something we can do to increase visibility and approachability. We are increasing our suite of bicycles anyway but some areas are not suitable for bikes - like Market Street or the Arndale Centre.

"A police officer can cover a greater distance quicker and officers would be on a raised platform to improve visibility.

"They are pretty easy to use once you get used to them and they proved very popular with other officers when we tested them."

To increase visibility and accessibility to officers in City of Manchester, I want to introduce Segway's. Good idea? pic.twitter.com/Ehe1R5vn1x

Segways are illegal to use on pavements and do not meet regulations designed for electric bikes. Segways can't be used on roads as a motor vehicle either. They operate purely by balance. Riders stand upright and control the vehicle through tall handlebars.

They were launched in the US in 2001 - and have quickly become popular across the world. Immortalised in the 2009 hit movie Paul Blart: Mall Cop, they are often used in the US at theme parks, tourist attractions, shopping centres and by security guards on housing estates. Adventure companies in the UK also advertise Segway 'experience' days for thrill-seekers.